Young children may react to EoE differently than older children or adults. Infants and young children often present with symptoms suggestive of reflux while older children and adults often have difficulty swallowing. Eoe is a problem for all age groups and symptoms may vary. For example:
- Infants and toddlers may have feeding problems and vomiting. They also may fail to gain weight or grow properly.
- Older children and teens may have abdominal pain and vomiting, along with trouble swallowing. This can lead to a poor appetite and in some cases, choking on food.
- Older children and adults may also have trouble swallowing, and food may get stuck in their esophagus (impacations). Heartburn and chest pain are also symptoms of EoE in older children and adults.
Many of the symptoms of EoE in young children resemble those of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It is important to be seen by digestive health experts to get an accurate diagnosis.
